KUALA LUMPUR (Oct 25): BASF Petronas Chemicals Sdn Bhd (BPC), a joint venture between Germany's BASF and Petroliam Nasional Bhd (Petronas), announced that its second production line for 2-ethylhexanoic acid (2-EHAcid) at the integrated site in Kuantan, Pahang, has successfully doubled the annual production capacity to 60,000 tonnes.

The groundbreaking for this production line took place in the first quarter of 2023. As of the third quarter of this year, the production line is fully operational, increasing the annual production capacity from the previous 30,000 tonnes.

2-EHAcid is a chemical intermediate used as a compound in the production of synthetic lubricants as well as oil additive. It is also used in functional fluids like automotive coolants, metal salts for paint dryers, plasticisers, stabilisers, catalysts and other applications in various industries.

BPC chairman Mazuin Ismail said in a statement that the increased capacity strategically positions BPC to capitalise on growth opportunities in the region.

“With demand for our product continuing to rise, we are well-equipped to meet it efficiently and effectively, ensuring our customers receive top-quality products promptly,” said Mazuin, who is also Petronas Chemicals Group Bhd (KL:PCHEM) managing director/chief executive officer.

In addition to the production site in Kuantan, BASF produces 2-EHAcid at its Verbund site in Ludwigshafen, Germany.

“This expansion (in Kuantan) enables us to better meet the rapidly growing demand for high-quality 2-ethylhexanoic acid in the Asia Pacific region,” said BASF's Intermediates Asia Pacific senior vice-president Michael Becker.

“By enhancing our capacity, we strengthen our responsiveness to customer needs and solidify our position as a leading supplier in the market. We are committed to our vision to be the preferred partner for sustainable intermediates,” Becker added.